Linking current, potential difference and resistance
I can describe the relationships between current, potential difference and resistance.
Linking current, potential difference and resistance
I can describe the relationships between current, potential difference and resistance.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The current in a series circuit is the same everywhere.
- The p.d. across each component in a series electric circuit adds up to the p.d. of the battery.
- The greater the resistance in a series circuit, the lower the current (current is inversely proportional to resistance).
- The greater the battery p.d. in series circuit, the larger the current (current is directly proportional to p.d.).
- Current, p.d. or resistance can be calculated with the equation: current = p.d./resistance.
Common misconception
Pupils often use physics equations without understanding, leading to errors.
Develop a qualitative understanding of potential difference, current and resistance before combining them mathematically. Use the equation as a shorthand for an already understood relationship between them.
Keywords
Series circuit - a circuit where there is only one loop
Potential difference (p.d.) - the voltage or a measure of the ‘push’ on electrons in a circuit
Resistance - a measure of how difficult it is for current to flow in a circuit
Electrical current - a measure of the amount of charge passing a given point in one second
Ohms (Ω) - the unit of resistance
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
a measure of how difficult it is for charge to move around a circuit
the amount of charge passing a point in one second
a measure of the ‘push’ on electrons in a circuit